child-time

Screen time rules for kids — printable poster

Updated:

Eight short rules, one page, big letters. Read them together, change what doesn't fit your family, and put the page where everyone can see it.

Our screen time rules

  1. Homework and chores come first.Screens start when the important things are done.
  2. We stop when the timer says so.No “five more minutes” — finish the match and save.
  3. No screens at the table.Meals are for talking. That goes for grown-ups too.
  4. Screens sleep before we do.Everything is off an hour before bed.
  5. Ask before installing or buying.New games and purchases need a yes from a parent.
  6. Be kind online.If you wouldn't say it to someone's face, don't type it.
  7. Tell a grown-up if something feels wrong.You won't be in trouble for asking for help.
  8. Extra time is earned, not argued for.Reading, sport and helping at home add minutes.

Signed by the whole family: ______________________________________

Make the rules your own

  • Fewer is better. Five rules everyone remembers beat fifteen nobody does. Cross out the ones you don't need.
  • Add the numbers separately. How many minutes on school days and weekends goes into the family agreement, and tasks for extra time into the chore chart.
  • Rules apply to adults too. Children notice who is on the phone at dinner.
  • Let a timer be the referee. On a Windows PC, child-time shows your child the time left, warns at 15, 5 and 1 minute, and locks the screen when time is up — so rule 2 doesn't depend on you watching the clock.

Try child-time free